Lehigh Valley Style September 2024 by Innovative Designs & Publishing, Inc.

fare does an about-face at La

Mexican

Maya restaurant in Hellertown, pg. 68

Holmquist Farm Fairfield

$6,400,000

The winding country roads of New Hope are an idyllic backdrop for this fully updated rural estate surrounded by 12 private acres with extensive landscaping, heated inground infinity pool, & pickleball court. 5 beds/5 baths in the main house; 2 beds/1.5 baths in the guest house; detached 5-car garage.

A house to live in, to entertain in, and to cherish, this classic colonial is a genteel blend of grace & subdued elegance. Fairfield is a particularly fine example of a notable estate property. The timeless design provides exceptional livability in a home with comfortable proportions. 6 bedrooms, 7 full baths, 11,000+ SqFt of living space.

$2,295,000

Extraordinary finishes & meticulous care are the hallmarks of this outstanding Bethlehem home. Rarely does a property feature the attention to detail and upscale amenities at every turn as does Cross Creek Court. Generously sized rooms are appointed with white oak floors, 9’ ceilings, & detailed poplar moldings.

$1,150,000

One of only a handful of Saucon Valley’s legacy properties, the house and grounds have been proudly cared for and recently updated with a stunning addition and breathtaking renovations. The commanding location presents a oneof-a-kind privacy that only time can provide. 4 Beds, 3 full baths, heated in-ground pool. $4,500,000

Foxfield Meadowview

Four Seasons Manor

Set on an enchanting 30 acres, down a winding driveway bordered by tall trees and nicely removed from a quiet country road in Upper Bucks County, sits Four Seasons Manor. This stately custom home is designed to take full advantage of its surroundings. 7 beds, 6 full baths, heated indoor pool, finished lower level. $2,995,000

Moore Estate

A premier property on Bethlehem’s coveted Main Street extension, this beautiful Georgian colonial dates back to the city’s earliest days. Moore Estate has been restored and remodeled, thoughtfully marrying form, function, and history with wonderful updates. $1,175,000

$1,295,000

A scenic and serene landscape is the setting for Meadowview, a classic gentleman’s farm in beautiful Upper Bucks County. The 8-acre parcel is a blend of fields, gardens, and creek, a restful haven in a peaceful rural setting. Circa 1813, the stone farmhouse retains pumpkin pine floors, deep-silled windows, and exposed wood beams.

Peaceful and picturesque, Firefly Meadow is a quintessential country paradise. Set on 1.35 acres in upper Bucks County, this idyllic farmette includes a main house, in-ground pool with hot tub, guest studio, and detached garage. 3 beds, 3 baths, guest cottage/studio, heated in-ground pool. $930,000

Sheltered amidst mature landscaping and a canopy of tall trees, this circa 1890 home enjoys a premier location in Bethlehem’s distinguished Historic District. This updated beauty offers 3 finished floors of living space. $925,000

DESTINATION RELAXATION

Relaxing spa treatments and ultra-luxe amenities await you at our full-service salon. Enjoy an everyday getaway with relaxation pools, swinging chairs over a wading pool, infrared saunas, aromatherapy steam rooms, breathtaking views of Bethlehem, and more.

Tom Garrity Compass Point Family Business Consultant

David Fronheiser, Former President Bradley Pulverizer

SEPTEMBER

This home is weekend getaway goals, pg. 50

14 S TYLE SCENE Events | Benefits Galas | Parties

22 TH IS MONTH’S PICKS What We’re Loving Right Now

25 T RENDING NOW News, Notes & Quotes

30 G ET THE GOODS Asante Art Gallery

33 LI VING WELL WITH Chris Carullo

37 I NSIGHT Jerald Brown

42 5 THINGS Bread Puddings & Beyond

50 L AKESIDE RETREAT Inside an Emmaus Family’s Getaway Home in the Pocono Mountains

56 F ROM SILK TO STEEL, CARS TO CANALS 9 Lehigh Valley Museums to Explore

66 B EYOND THE MENU Glazed Meatloaf with the Owners of The Smokin’ Pasty Co.

68 I NSIDE DISH La Maya

72 D RINK THIS Bloody Mary Pickle Shot

The team behind La Maya, photographed by Alison Conklin

PHOTO

It isn’t a new hospital. It’s a whole new way of thinking.

At the new, state-of-the-art Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital in Center Valley, you’ll find so much more than just a hospital. This is the nexus of talent and technology, where you have a partner ready to walk beside you as you navigate your journey following spinal cord injury, stroke, brain injury and other complex medical rehabilitation.

SEPTEMBER

September is my favorite month of the year. It’s when you get to soak up the last few drops of summer—the sun is still setting late, you can squeeze in a few final pool days and you don’t have to worry about bundling up just yet. Still, the excitement for fall hits in September— the temperature starts to drop, the leaves begin to change and there’s a crispness to the air. When I asked the Lehigh Valley Style team what they love about fall (pg. 12), they responded with excitement for things like sweater weather, stews, apple picking, football season and re-watching Gilmore Girls. It’s not very often we allow ourselves to get excited about life’s little things… but in September, we do. It’s part of the magic of the season.

So, cozy up with this edition and celebrate September in the Lehigh Valley with us! Our pages are filled with suggestions that will get you in the spirit. Go inside an Emmaus family’s lakeside retreat in the Pocono Mountains on pg. 50, devote a weekend to exploring the region’s museums on pg. 56, grab dinner at Hellertown’s newest restaurant La Maya on pg. 68, indulge in bread puddings (and beyond!) on pg. 42, make the owners of The Smokin’ Pasty Co.’s recipe for glazed meatloaf on pg. 66 and so much more.

No matter how you’re spending your time this September, we hope it’s filled with all of your favorite fall things.

Warmly,

KRISTEN WAGNER

kwagner@lehighvalleystyle.com

our publisher, Pam Deller, is looking forward to this month! pdeller@lehighvalleystyle.com

Ordering the breakfast strata at Jumbars!

Dinner at La Maya, finally!

Style photographer Marco Calderon left his photoshoot at the Benders' lake house with

[Right] The proximity to the former Bethlehem Steel factory is sentimental to DaRe, as his grandfather and greatgrandfather worked a combined 80 years in the Bethlehem Steel Industry. In fact, one of the upgrades to the building includes a mural of his great grandfather in the kitchen area, named “The Bull” in his memory. The mural was painted by local artist Matt Halm.

ROOTS STEEL of

It’s been one year since BSI Corporate Benefits relocated their headquarters to the former Victory Firehouse in Southside Bethlehem. The historic building underwent a $2.5 million renovation that took nearly 14 months to complete with the help of more than 20 local vendors and partners.

BSI, the leading employee benefits firm in the Lehigh Valley, has experienced rapid growth over the last few years, and was in need of a new space to accommodate its growing team. However, the new space was not just a physical move - it was a strategic decision made by CEO Tony DaRe to allow for enhanced client support, collaboration, and community events, such as monthly blood drives.

“Our new building, with all of its incredible history, is now a part of all of us. It will always be here as a place for teammates to come together, share ideas, celebrate each other, and to act as a physical example of our commitment to our clients, community, and each other. We are here to stay and it works for us, in our own comfortably unique way.”

-Tony DaRe, CEO, BSI Corporate Benefits

The renovations would not have been possible without the incredible vendor team who dedicated months of time and expert guidance. It was important to BSI that the new headquarters reflect not only the building’s history, but the history of the city of Bethlehem as well.

Thank you to the partners who brought the new building to life: Alan Kunsman Roofing & Siding, BEI Electrical, Boyle Construction, Builders Door & Hardware, Burkholder's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc., Center Valley Concrete Form, Cope Commercial Flooring and Interiors, INC., Corporate Environments, Creative Landscapes, DesignPoint, Dual Temp Company, Dugan & Marcon, INC., ET&T, Inc., K&H Custom Window Treatments, MKSD architects, Morris Black & Sons, Inc., Overhead Door, Precision Tile, Prowall Painting, Reed Sign Company, and Vistacom Inc.

From executive level strategies on maintaining market-competitive benefits, implementing cost-control strategies, day-to-day member support and beyond, BSI is fully integrated with clients to ensure their specific business goals are met. Looking for an employee benefits firm rooted in tradition and excellence in their craft? Call BSI today at (484) 821-1300 or visit www.bsicorporate.com.

Photo credit: Paige Bechtle

Cooler evenings and walks on the Saucon Rail Trail!

VOLUME 26, ISSUE 9

President/CEO

Paul Prass

Vice President/COO

Lisa Prass

Publisher Pamela Deller

Editor-in-Chief

Kristen Wagner

Director of Creative Services

Mike Matuczinski

Graphic Designers

Eleanor Anderson, Thomas Körp, Elaine Wyborski

Excited for the great weather in the fall—perfect for outdoor dining!

I love the crisp fall weather and, of course, Eagles football Sundays.

Fall is my favorite time of year. Cozy sweaters, beautiful leaves and re-watching GilmoreGirls what’s not to love?

Corporate Marketing & Events Manager Jen Fronheiser

Marketing Advisors

Caroline Adams, Denise Lichty, Arielle Solliday, Pam Taylor

Contributing Writers

Alison Conklin, Susan Gottshall, Amy Unger, Daisy Willis

Contributing Photographers

Marco Calderon, Matthew Cannon, Alison Conklin

Proofreader

Lori McLaughlin

Accounting

Jobelle Aleño, Donna Bachman, Kim Kressman, Sarah Varano

Editorial & Marketing Interns

Claire Thomas, Alania Mariano

Something I always look forward to in the fall is…

I ’m ready for stews, bread puddings and sweater weather! And it’s cliché, but the smell of autumn leaves when it’s crisp outside can’t be beat.

I’m so looking forward to the cooler temps and apple picking!

Crisp air filling my lungs, brown leaves crunching under my feet, an amber sun hung low in the sky… and apple cider donuts!!!

MAKING THE MAGAZINE

SUSAN GOTTSHALL

Contributing Writer

Working on the museum feature, I was amazed and in awe of all the volunteers I saw supporting Lehigh Valley museums with their time, their talent and so much passion! They believe with fervor that the stories our museums tell need to be heard, and so hundreds of our friends and neighbors give back to ensure the doors to these cultural gems stay wide open. Say thank you to the next museum volunteer you meet!

ALISON CONKLIN

Contributing Writer & Photographer

I absolutely loved photographing this edition’s Inside Dish and Beyond the Menu. I fell in love with the gorgeous design of La Maya’s new restaurant, and I loved getting to know Carla and Tom of The Smokin’ Pasty Co. Their story of following their dream and going for it was so inspiring to me.

Style Insider Happy Hour

A WickedSoirée

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2024 Cocktails

1 | Zeke and Elaine Zelker

| Nadya and Victor Salicetti

Devin Ruddell and Alicia Ruddell

Justin Keiper and Nick DeJesus

Teri Hontz, Gina Stano, Val Lewis and Patti Nappi

Lawlor, Kevin Lawlor, Tara Lawlor, Ryan Lawlor, Caroline Lawlor and Sadie Lawlor

Grace Hercik, Lilly Hercik and Natalee Hercik

Combining cutting-edge innovation with elegant aesthetics, experience the perfect blend of advanced technology, style and sophistication at Wichryk Eye.

BY APPOINTMENT

St.

| Budd and Laure Lesavoy 8 | Adrienne and Tony DaRe

Danielle Adams-Wiltshire and Jacqueline Vargas

Rayda Gonzalez and Jessica Olivier

Sarah Dams

Megan Beste and Flo Scott

Michelle Zenie Rounds and Caley Bittner

PHOTOGRAPHY BY VLAD IMAGE STUDIO

THIS MONTH’S PICKS

CONGRATS!

Did you hear the news? Owowcow Creamery was named America’s third-best ice cream shop in USA Today ’s Readers’ Choice Awards. (They were dubbed number one on the East Coast!) Go grab a scoop at their Easton location to find out what all the buzz is about. owowcow.com

LEHIGH VALLEY POLO

Don’t miss the region’s only “Sport of Kings” benefit polo match at Braden Airpark on Sunday, September 15. The 10 th annual event promises fun, food and, yes, divot stomping. Choose from general admission tickets, a tailgate spot or the VIP experience. Lehigh Valley Polo runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the match beginning at 1 p.m. equi-librium.org

BEER FEST

Mark your calendar for the seventh annual Allentown Beer Fest taking place on Saturday, September 7. Enjoy beer samples, live music and great food in Downtown Allentown from 1–5 p.m. Tickets are available at the door for $50! downtownallentown.com

ROYAL TREATMENT

Eleven11 Nail Studio opened its doors in Easton in June. The full-service nail salon guarantees royal treatment, with walk-ins welcome and online booking available. eleven11nailstudio.com

Pizzafest

Save the date for ArtsQuest’s first-ever Pizzafest, taking place at the SteelStacks campus on Sunday, September 29! Presented by Surfside Vodka, the festival kicks off at 1 p.m. General admission tickets are available week of for $10 and promise bites from all participating vendors. There are also two special VIP experiences available for purchase. steelstacks.org

New

Enjoy with Gusto Hospitality Group opened their latest venture, Albanesi Restaurant & Bar, in July. Located in Downtown Easton, the full-service restaurant takes the place of Ocean 235 and specializes in Southern European cuisine. albanesiwithgusto.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF OWOWCOW CREAMERY

PHOTO BY ALISON CONKLIN

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALBANESI RESTAURANT & BAR

2024-2025 SEASON

Performing Artists Series

All performances at 7:30 pm Shamilton!

The Improvised Parody Musical! Tuesday, October 8, 2024

Don’t Stop Believin’

The Journey Tribute by E5C4P3

Thursday, October 24, 2024

An Evening of Fortepiano by Daniel Adam Maltz

Thursday, November 7, 2024

Mandy Gonzalez

Home for the Holidays Friday, December 6, 2024

Barron Ryan Trio

There Arises Light (in the Darkness)

Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Kurt

Named to the Forbes “Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams” list in 2024. Published on January 9, 2024. Rankings based on data as of March 31 2023.

Glenn W. Baumer, CFP®, CIMA®, C(k)P®, CPWA® Managing Director, Wealth Management Advisor

Christopher S. Baumer, CIMA®, C(k)P®, CPWA®, CRPC™ Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor

Breanne N. Granger, CRPC™, RICP®, ChSNC® Vice President, Senior Business Manager

Tiffany A. Nguyen, CRPC™ Registered Wealth Management Client Associate

has successfully completed the Institute’s initial and ongoing credentialing requirements for certification. C(k)P ® is a registered trademark of The Retirement Advisor University, Inc. CRPC ™ is a registered service mark of The College for Financial Planning. The RICP® is the property of The American College, which reserves sole rights to its use, and is used by permission. © 2024 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. | MAP6636652 | 05/2024

A COUPLE CRAVES

NEW TO BETHLEHEM

After years of making her own charcuterie boards to bring to parties and other events, Jessica Loney says her partner Andrew Kehm had the idea to open their own store and share their love for cheese with the community. Serving premade boxes and other grab-andgo goodies in the cooler, A Couple Craves also offers order customizations. “This is where our guests can choose everything that goes onto their plates, boxes or boards specific to their liking,” explain Loney and Kehm. More than just cheese, A Couple Craves sells everything from meats, honeys and nuts to wine and beer jellies. Located on Broad Street, the owners say there are so many reasons to love Bethlehem: “The small-business community really sticks together as well as the people supporting those small businesses. It is so exciting to see all of the new businesses and growth that is coming to the city.” In the future, A Couple Craves plans to host a variety of workshops, including buildyour-own charcuterie classes, wine and cheese pairings and even sourdough starter making.

3 W. Broad St. Suite 6, Bethlehem | 610.559.4644 acouplecraves

BY CLAIRE THOMAS | PHOTO COURTESY OF SPECTRACOLOR

SPECTRACOLOR COFFEE ROASTERY

BOOSTING THE VIBE

No stranger to the hospitality business, Laura Fay was an original co-founder of Eastonbased Separatist Beer Project. After five years overseeing the brewery’s creative design, branding, labels and interior design, Fay began exploring beverages that more closely aligned with her interests and discovered a love for coffee. She started working at two New Jersey coffee roasters (King’s Gambit Coffee Co. and Black River Roasters) while taking multiple Specialty Coffee Association classes at Coffee Project New York; she also began roasting at home and at Shared Roasting in Brooklyn, NY, to hone her skills. Fay found that she missed operating a local space and creating a product for the community to enjoy, so she decided to open Spectracolor Coffee Roasters in Easton’s Simon Silk Mill, where her beverage journey began. “Spectracolor Coffee Roastery is the only fullywoman-operated roastery in the Lehigh Valley,” says Fay. “The shop is what I like to call a ‘fever dream of color’ in a good way. I wanted to incorporate a wide spectrum of color and so I went with a retro ’70s vibe.” Roasting her beans at Backyard Beans Coffee Company in Lansdale, Fay strives to draw as much sweetness and juiciness from the bean as she can, resulting in a smooth and flavorful cup.

HOUNDS TOWN ALLENTOWN A UNIQUE APPROACH

“ Opening Hounds Town Allentown has been an exciting journey marked by a deep love for dogs and a commitment to providing a fun, safe and stimulating environment for them,” share owners Michael Beauchamp and Linda D’Alessandro. “Our passion for pets and desire to offer top-notch services to the Allentown community motivated us to embark on this rewarding journey.” Inspired by the Hounds Town franchise’s reputation for excellent pet care and its unique approach to doggy day care and boarding, the pair opened the location in March, offering a comprehensive range of pet care services that include doggy day care, overnight boarding and a pet spa. “What sets our offerings apart is our focus on creating a natural and engaging environment for dogs. At Hounds Town Allentown, dogs are grouped by size and temperament, allowing them to interact in a way that is both safe and enjoyable.” With a staff trained to understand canine behavior and a commitment to transparency, pet parents can trust Hounds Town Allentown to provide the best care for their furry friends. They also provide boarding for cats, ensuring every pet feels comfortable and cared for. What’s more, Hounds Town Allentown even offers a pet taxi that’s available for pick-ups and drop-offs!

2305 28 th St. SW, Allentown | 484.729.3861 | houndstownusa.com

BELVIDERE BAGELS

A JOURNEY

During the pandemic, Gina Miller-Rouse spent her time baking breads and desserts, and would often use foodies Jeremiah Rouse and Michael Fauerbach as a sounding board to refine her recipes. One day, they decided to make it their mission to create a really great bagel. “This became a yearlong project of baking, testing and refining a plain bagel recipe,” says Rouse. At the same time, Fauerbach was making specialty sandwiches on a Blackstone griddle and serving them alongside MillerRouse at local pop-ups. Through this, they gained a loyal following and learned that they work really well together. “With the bagel recipe nailed down and a buzz about their food at the pop-ups, we started kicking around the idea of opening a bagel and coffee shop,” says Rouse. The concept for Belvidere Bagels was born. When they secured a spot on Nazareth’s Belvidere Street, they had their name—and even when the location fell through, they decided to keep it. Now in Tatamy, locals can enjoy their handcrafted bagels, breakfast sandwiches, baked goods, lunch specials and an assortment of coffee and espresso beverages. “Our bagels are unique, as they are hand crafted using our own recipes based on a combination of New York- and Montreal-style bagels,” explains Rouse. “We are passionate about our products and take great care in using fresh, high-quality ingredients in all of our baked goods and specialty sandwiches.”

S. 8 th St., Tatamy | 610.438.1234 | belviderebagels.com

Holidays that feel like

us for three special evenings of holiday decorating and shopping and learn how to decorate for the season like an Interior Designer. We will demonstrate how to transition from Fall to Winter with ease.

Making Family Memories for the Holidays

LE MACARON BETHLEHEM

FRENCH INDULGENCES

“Our family has always had a shared love of macarons,” says Gina Passerman, owner/operator of Le Macaron Bethlehem. “We’ve taken macaron baking classes together, tried making them at home and love trying macarons wherever we go.”

In 2021, after almost a year at home amidst the pandemic, Passerman decided she wanted to do something that would bring joy to people once the world reopened, and her husband suggested opening a Le Macaron French Pastries ® shop. “We really enjoyed Le Macaron French Pastries ® macarons as well as their gelato, pastries, chocolates and other authentic French offerings. With Le Macaron’s goal of inviting guests to ‘slow down and experience the best of France in just a few bites’ it began to feel like the perfect fit!” she says. The macarons are made with the highest quality of natural ingredients, free of preservatives and artificial flavors, by a Lenôtre School of Culinary Arts trained pastry chef. Le Macaron Bethlehem promises more than 20 flavors of macarons as well as seasonal flavors, European and American coffees, teas, sodas and specialty hot chocolate, handmade gelato, confiseries, meringues, fine chocolates, madeleines, eclairs, napoleons, fresh baked croissants and many more French indulgences.

521 Main St., Bethlehem | lemacaron-us.com

BE PART OF THE STORY!

Should we feature your home? Email photos to editor@lehighvalleystyle.com!

Enter to win a $50 gift certificate to dine at Savory Grille! Visit lehighvalleystyle.com/ share-with-us to enter!

LVS Online

Head to lehighvalleystyle.com to find out what’s happening each week in the Lehigh Valley! Want to see your event included in the roundup? Email editor@lehighvalleystyle.com

You can view the entire issue for free online at lehighvalleystyle.com!

Subscribe and listen to our editorin-chief’s podcast, The LV Edit, to go behind the scenes at the magazine, hear conversations with contributors and celebrate life in the Lehigh Valley!

PHOTO BY DELMAINE DONSON / ADOBE STOCK

PHOTO BY ALISON CONKLIN

GET THE GOODS

Asante Art Gallery

Asante Art Gallery is on a mission to showcase African art on a global stage, sharing Africa’s beauty and spirit with the world. Here, every piece of artwork tells a story, and each visitor takes a piece of Africa with them. Locally, Asante Art Gallery serves as a cultural hub, offering a space where art and community come together to celebrate heritage and creativity. Read on to learn more from the gallery’s managing director Sylvia Kendi.

QTell us about how Asante Art Gallery came to be!

Asante Art Gallery is a culmination of over two decades of dedication to African art, rooted in our early days back in Kenya. Our journey in art began with prestigious commissions to gift senior government dignitaries and to revamp embassies, alongside attending numerous art shows. Art is not just our business; it’s our life’s work. Upon moving to the U.S., we continued to introduce and celebrate African art through shows hosted right from our basement. It was a humble yet vibrant beginning, bridging continents and cultures through every piece showcased. The dream of having our own space was always in mind, and in June 2023, that dream became a reality when we opened Asante Art Gallery in the Valley.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON

Describe what it means to you to be the first African art gallery in the Lehigh Valley. Being the first African art gallery in the Lehigh Valley is not just a title—it’s a testament to our community’s openness and diversity. The welcoming embrace we’ve received from the local residents and organizations in the Lehigh Valley reinforces our belief that art transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. The move to establish a presence in the Lehigh Valley was driven by our desire to connect with a broader audience and to serve as a bridge between cultures. By introducing the unique flavors and stories of African art to this new setting, we not only share pieces of Kenyan culture but also celebrate the universal language of art. Each artwork curated in our gallery offers a glimpse into the diverse landscapes, rich histories and vibrant cultures of Africa, making Asante Art Gallery a beacon of cultural exchange and understanding.

Tell us the meaning behind the gallery’s name.

The word “asante,” which means “thank you” in Swahili, holds deep significance for our gallery. It reflects our gratitude towards everyone who has been part of our journey. From our origins in Nairobi to our establishment in the Lehigh Valley, each step has been supported by countless individuals who believed in our vision. This includes our talented artists, our dedicated team and our diverse community of clients and partners.

Describe the overall vibe of the gallery. What is a viewing experience like for visitors?

Asante Art Gallery is an immersive journey into the

heart of Africa. From the moment visitors step through our doors, they’re transported to a world where the vibrant landscapes, majestic wildlife and rich cultures of Africa come alive. A visit to Asante Art Gallery is not just a viewing experience; it’s an educational journey that enlightens and inspires. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation of Africa’s artistic heritage, encouraged to think about art not only as a form of beauty but as a narrative of vibrant cultures and histories.

Tell us about the range of artwork on display at the gallery.

We pride ourselves on offering a diverse array of artwork that showcases the rich tapestry of African creativity. Our collection features a variety of mediums, ensuring there is something to capture the interest of every visitor. As visitors wander through our exhibits, they experience a dynamic blend of traditional and contemporary African art. Each piece, whether it’s a painting, sculpture or piece of handmade jewelry, tells a story of the people, animals or places it represents.

Tell us about some of the exhibits and events the gallery has hosted!

Asante Art Gallery has had the privilege of hosting a range of dynamic and meaningful events that align closely with our mission to promote African art and culture. Among

these, we were honored to host the Black Wall Street event in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce. This event focused on celebrating African-American entrepreneurship and culture. More recently, we hosted the Lehigh Valley Fashion Week, an event that brought together fashion, art and culture, highlighting local and international designers. Our gallery was transformed into a vibrant runway, where the textiles, colors and patterns of Africa mingled with contemporary fashion trends, exploring the intersections of cultural identity and artistic expression.

What upcoming exhibits and events do you have planned?

We are continuously planning smaller exhibits, workshops and collaborative projects that aim to engage different segments of the community throughout the year. Stay tuned for more details as we finalize the exciting lineup of activities!

123 Palmer Park Mall, Easton 484.602.0864 | 484.767.5143 asante_art_gallery

LIVING WELL WITH

Chris Carullo

TPI-CERTIFIED GOLF-SPECIFIC FITNESS COACH

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON

Chris Carullo combines his deep knowledge of fitness with his passion for golf through Art of Flight Golf, located inside Bethlehem Golf Club. Offering programs and memberships designed to cater to golfers of all levels and interests, Art of Flight Golf is open to everyone and is intended for anyone who is looking to move better, play better and enjoy pain-free golf. Carullo is proud to be creating a unique and impactful service for golfers, calling it incredibly rewarding to help clients enhance their skills on the course while also achieving better overall wellness.

QDescribe your personal philosophy when it comes to overall wellness!

Fitness is the cornerstone of moving and feeling better; it’s essential for living a long, pain-free and active life. I see fitness not just as a routine but as a lifestyle. It’s about making consistent, healthy decisions that enhance our physical capabilities and overall wellbeing. By prioritizing fitness, we set ourselves up for a more fulfilling life, where we can engage in the activities we love without limitations.

How did your fitness journey begin?

My fitness journey began with a strong foundation in sports during my childhood. I was always active, which instilled in me a love for movement and physical activity. In my early teens, I started lifting weights, and this experience opened my eyes to the transformative power of strength training. By the time I was 16, I was so passionate about fitness that I began taking on my first personal training clients.

How did those early experiences shape your path?

These early experiences were pivotal, as they not only honed my physical abilities but also allowed me to share my passion with others. Helping people achieve their fitness goals became incredibly rewarding, and it solidified my commitment to a lifelong health and wellness journey. Fitness, for me, is not just about staying in shape—it's about living a balanced, active lifestyle.

Tell us about the decision to pivot and start Art of Flight Golf after a decade of owning your own personal training facility in Bethlehem.

My decision to pivot was driven by a combination of personal passion and a desire to fill a unique niche in the fitness industry. While I thoroughly enjoyed helping clients achieve their fitness goals through personal training, I realized that my love for golf presented an opportunity to blend my expertise in fitness with my enthusiasm for the sport.

Tell us about the inspiration for Art of Flight

Over the years, I noticed that many golfers were looking for specialized training programs that not only improved their game but also enhanced their overall physical health. I saw a gap in the market for golf-specific fitness programs that addressed the unique demands of the sport. This realization inspired me to create Art of Flight Golf, offering comprehensive training programs designed to help golfers of all levels improve their performance, reduce the risk of injury and enjoy the game more fully.

What do you love most about the sport of golf?

What I love most about the sport of golf is its timeless nature and the sense of community it fosters. Golf is a unique sport that you can play your entire life, offering both relaxation and competition regardless of age. Whether you're out on the course to disconnect and enjoy time with friends or to test your skills in a competitive setting, golf provides a versatile and enriching experience.

Golf.

I've met so many incredible people on the golf course, all united by a shared passion for the game. This camaraderie and the connections formed are truly special. Golf isn't just about the physical aspect; it's also about the relationships and memories you build along the way. The lifelong enjoyment and the community it brings are what make golf such an extraordinary sport for me.

Explain the significance of being Titleist Performance Institute Certified!

For over 20 years, Reproductive Medicine Associates' next-level science and proven treatment plans have turned big dreams into little Addisons, Sophies and Ezras – to name a few. With a birth rate of 85.5%, we can turn your dreams into reality.

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Being TPI Certified holds significant importance in the realm of golf fitness and performance. This certification signifies that a coach has specialized knowledge and skills to help golfers optimize their physical conditioning and enhance their performance on the course. With over 20 years of experience as a coach in the fitness industry, I have always prioritized continuous education and professional development. I traveled extensively to obtain a wide range of certifications, with TPI certification being a cornerstone of my professional journey. TPI is renowned for its comprehensive approach to golf fitness, combining biomechanics, functional movement and sports medicine to create tailored training programs for golfers.

What exactly is golf performance training?

Golf performance training is a specialized form of fitness training focused on improving a golfer's physical abilities, such as strength, flexibility and balance, to enhance their performance on the course. It combines exercises and techniques tailored to the specific demands of golf, aiming to optimize swing mechanics, increase power and reduce the risk of injury.

What

does a typical golf workout look like?

A typical golf workout typically begins with movement preparation exercises to activate muscles and increase range of motion. It then progresses to strength and stability movements targeting key muscle groups for golf performance. Mobility exercises follow to enhance flexibility and joint function. Finally, the session may include skill-specific drills using simulators and speed sticks to refine swing mechanics and develop a repeatable

*Selfie by Addison (2 years old)

swing. This structured approach aims to improve overall fitness and golf-specific abilities effectively.

Should all golfers consider golf-specific fitness training in the off-season?

Golfers in the Northeast face a unique challenge with a playing season typically limited to about half the year due to weather conditions. This makes it crucial to maximize the off-season by focusing on golf-specific fitness training. Improving physical conditioning during this time not only enhances performance when on the course but also allows golfers to maintain and refine skills consistently throughout the year, despite the shorter playing season. This proactive approach ensures that when the season begins, golfers are wellprepared to perform at their best.

What is your preferred exercise/ go-to workout?

My preferred exercise regimen revolves around full-body functional workouts, which are akin to golf-specific training routines in their focus on overall body function and balance.

What are your favorite eateries and restaurants to visit in the Lehigh Valley for a good meal? What do you order?

Copperhead Grille. Their chimmi chicken is awesome, and you can’t beat the double portion of protein. Their food is always consistently delicious, and the staff is great. The owner must really know what he’s doing!

Jerald Brown

Mr. Basketball

BY AMY UNGER

BY ALISON CONKLIN

The coach Jerald Brown who is calling the shots from the sidelines for the Emmaus boys basketball team looks a little different than the forward Jerald Brown who stalked the court as a standout player decades ago in Texas. “I’m a 47-year-old young man, a seasoned man,” Brown says. “I say the gray hairs I have in my beard aren’t gray hairs, they’re wisdom highlights.”

But, all appearance alterations aside, make no mistake about it: Mr. Basketball is back.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Anthony Sierra Designs

The title was bestowed on Brown in 1996, effectively crowning him the best high school player in the entire Lone Star State, all 260,000 square miles of it. Brown was born and raised in Houston, and his entrance into athletics seemed predestined, thanks to geography (“In Texas everybody plays sports,” says Brown) and genes; not only was his father a professional baseball player, but his mother and two sisters excelled in sports as well. Brown initially played football and basketball—“I always had a ball in my hand,” he says—but it was his tall, lanky build (he’s six feet, eight inches tall) that cemented his fate. “When you look at my size and the weight I had on me at the time, basketball was the obvious way to go,” says Brown.

The same year he was named Mr. Basketball, he shared a court with Kobe Bryant and other future stars during the McDonald’s All-American Game. “We had a pretty strong class coming out of high school,” Brown says. He also played on the U.S. Junior Olympic team, which tangled with the best high school players from across the Atlantic.

Brown then took his hoop dreams to Texas A&M University, where he had to adapt to a new reality: “That was the first time I ever really experienced losing,” he says. At the time, the school was shifting out of the NCAA’s Division 1 Texas-centric Southwest Conference and into the Big 12, where competition was stiffer. Even though he was named the Big 12 Freshman of the Year for the Aggies, Brown says he slipped into a depression as the losses piled up, which impacted his play on the court. He even contemplated taking his own life. He credits an act of divine intervention on the side of a highway with keeping him from following through with it. From that moment on, his faith would play a prominent role in everything he did. “That’s my core, my foundation. Everything permeates from there,” says Brown.

Post graduation in 2000, he was unsure of his next move. His agent got him a tryout with an up-and-coming (and now defunct) professional team, the Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs, which was based in the Lehigh Valley and coached by

NBA legend—Chocolate Thunder himself— Darryl Dawkins. It was Brown’s first brush not only with life in the Lehigh Valley, but also with experiencing four seasons worth of changing weather. Brown quickly learned, when it came to that white stuff that tended to accumulate in wintertime, he wasn’t a fan. “In Texas you don’t have to shovel sunshine,” he says. “Up north, you definitely gotta shovel snow.”

Brown wasn’t with the ValleyDawgs for long, but relocating to Pennsylvania was a clutch move for a different reason. He met and fell in love with his now wife, Reagan Brown, an Easton-area native. Before officially tying the knot, Brown toyed with the idea of playing professional basketball overseas while Reagan stayed behind in the Lehigh Valley. He made it as far as Germany before he came to his senses: “I got there and I realized she was the one. What are we doing? Why are we kidding each other?” They got married in 2002. Over the years that followed they had four children and moved back and forth between the Lehigh Valley and Texas several times. Brown says he wanted his children to spend some of their formative years in his old stomping grounds, soaking up the Texas way of life and quality time with family there. Brown’s brood finally settled in Emmaus in 2021. Around that same time, he decided he was ready to part ways with the lawn care business

he had spent many years cultivating. “I wanted to be able to utilize the gifts and talent that God has given me to be able to impact the community,” Brown says. “I found a home in the Emmaus family, the Hornets family.”

Students at Emmaus High School first got to know him as a hall monitor, a parttime position he took on to supplement his income from the lawn care business. Brown was hired as a full-time student advisor for the 2023–2024 school year. In his role, he helps all grade levels make good decisions and work through issues that may be holding them back from reaching their full potential. “I love being able to walk with and reach 3,000 students each year to hopefully help make a positive impact on their lives,” Brown says.

But just beyond the hallways and classrooms, the thud of leather on hardwood beckoned in the gymnasium. “It was just time,” Brown says of his decision to throw his hat into the ring for the position of head boys basketball coach. “It was time for me to get back to the court.” Brown is not a coaching novice; he has several prior posts under his belt, including a brief stint as head of the Easton Area High School girls’ program. But, during his previous gigs wielding the whistle, the demands of raising four young children weighed on him: “You only have so much time in a day.” Now, though, with his youngest child a freshman at Emmaus High School, his family gave him the green light to pick up the coaching clipboard once again.

Brown calls this a rebuilding year for the Hornets, as the team moves ahead without the five seniors who graduated in June. “I enjoy galvanizing the troops, bringing them together for one goal,

one mission,” he says. “I love seeing teams coming together and becoming one heartbeat.” And he’ll be drawing inspiration from a long list of mentors. “I’ve had multiple different coaches throughout my career that have taught me and led me,” Brown says. “And you have this wealth of knowledge that you want to pass on to the next generation.” Although his competitive playing days are in the rear-view mirror—“I am officially semi-retired,” he says—Brown can still be coaxed into a pick-up game here and there. There are things he thinks about from his heyday on the hardwood that make him feel a little wistful. “You miss the locker-room, the bus rides, and you miss the games,” says Brown. “You miss the fans, you miss the stage, suiting up and running through that threshold and going out and performing for the fans.” And yet Mr. Basketball is exactly where he needs to be. He has no regrets about never making it in the NBA. “God has placed me where I am supposed to be at this stage of my life to share with the community, and student body of the East Penn School District,” Brown says. “What a great honor to be able to serve!”

BREAD PUDDINGS & Beyond

BY DAISY WILLIS

PHOTO BY VIKTORIJA / A DOBE STOCK

Be it savory strata, succulent upside-down cake or sumptuously saturated tres leches, the crumb of bread and cake is transformed by permeation of flavor, awash in saucy enhancement, and very tasty indeed. Try one of these five for a fetching forkful.

1. SAVORY BREAKFAST STRATA

JUMBARS CAFE

1342 Chelsea Ave., Bethlehem

610.866.1660 | jumbars.com

Sourcing their ingredients from local farms, Jumbars is a neighborhood joint in Bethlehem with an oldtimey integrity and dishes that don’t miss. For example, the savory breakfast strata: a complex concoction of whole wheat bread studded with Granny Smith apples and seasoned with sage, swimming in your choice of sausage or mushroom gravy, with cheddar cheese and two poached eggs on top.

2 . TIRAMISU

SETTE LUNA

219 Ferry St., Easton

610.253.8888 | setteluna.com

So soupy as to be served in a bowl, the tiramisu at Sette Luna has ladyfingers steeped in coffee, a generous slathering of mascarpone, and a finishing slosh of Italian brandy. Enjoy a rich and refreshing serving to cap off a Tuscan feast of wood-fired pizza, risotto or pasta at a spot that appeases even purists of Italian cuisine.

3. PINEAPPLE-RUM PUDDING

KABINETT WINE BAR

125 Northampton St., Easton

484.545.7670 | kabinettwinebar.com

Fanciful fusion and memory-making meals define the Bavarian/Aussie-inspired Kabinett Wine Bar in Easton. On a menu replete with duck, bone marrow and caviar, you know the dessert selections will exceed expectations. The pineapple-rum pudding consists of brioche soaking up a pineapple custard, with coconut cream and a cookie crunch finishing off this tropical treat.

4. STICKY TOFFEE PUDDING

MCCARTHY’S RED STAG PUB

534 Main St., Bethlehem

610.861.7631 | redstagpub.com

This British classic features a sponge cake sticky with dates and drenched in toffee sauce, with no chance of a dry crumb to be found. At McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub, Bethlehem’s destination for all things Irish and British Isles, an Earl Grey-infused sponge cake and toffee sauce are partnered with clotted cream and candied orange peel for a warm and cozy finish to your fish and chips.

5. GINGER PINEAPPLE UPSIDE-DOWN CAKE

RANDEVOO

444 Main St., Bethlehem

610.419.0086 | randevoorestaurant.com

From its start as a fusion food truck, Randevoo’s happy customers supported its Asian-inspired fare all the way to a brick-and-mortar location on Bethlehem’s Main Street. Here you can select inventive versions of sushi, dumplings and desserts from a short and sweet menu, like the ginger-infused take on a mid-century classic, pineapple upside-down cake with a snowy scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.

PA HOUSE

LEHIGH VALLEY WATER SYSTEMS

The Lehigh Valley’s Water Softener Experts

With just $800 to his name, founder Barry Long opened a local water treatment and well pump business in 1976. Although Barry maintained the original Orefield location, he ended up selling that initial business decades later. In 2012 after a brief period out of the business, Barry established Lehigh Valley Water Systems. Lehigh Valley Water Systems is owned and operated by the father-and-son duo of Barry and Ben Long. Make no mistake, there is only one Long family-owned and -operated business, and that is Lehigh Valley Water Systems.

Lehigh Valley Water Systems is the premier family-owned and -operated water treatment business. Lehigh Valley Water Systems specializes in water softening and water filtration with superior “old school” customer service. Lehigh Valley Water Systems offers customized water treatment solutions to both residential and commercial customers. There is no one that will work harder for the customer than Lehigh Valley Water Systems to ensure customers are satisfied for years to come.

Owner Ben Long had this to say: “I can personally guarantee that we will always be true to our word, no matter the cost. Customers can rest easy knowing if they ever have a question or concern, we will be there for them. We have been in business for decades and will be there for years to come. Sustainability is important to us, because we want our customer to know we will always have their back and solve their unique water problems.”

Lehigh Valley Water Systems offers free in-home or virtual consultations to resolve any water issue. The Lehigh Valley is known to have excessively hard water which causes issues with household plumbing and appliances, causes itchy skin and scalp and provides brittle and dry hair. Bottom line is, hard water is hard to live with. Call or text the water softener experts today!

ARTEFACT, INC.

Architecture, Interiors and Historic Preservation

Founded in 1986, Artefact, Inc., has built a reputation for elevated design, sustainable solutions and expert knowledge of historic architecture. With projects ranging from 200 to 300,000 square feet, the firm provides client-centered, creative architectural and interior design services throughout the Lehigh Valley.

Nearly 40 years ago, architect and Lehigh University professor Christine Ussler launched Artefact, Inc., with a few hundred dollars and a passion for historic preservation. Today, the firm has grown into one of the most highly regarded architectural firms in the region, staffed by a dedicated, efficient team of eight.

With expertise in architectural and interior design, renovations and restorations, and new construction, Artefact has designed awardwinning interiors for private residences, mixed-use facilities and expansive historic rehabilitation projects. Tackling jobs of all sizes and scales, the team is known for its elegant yet budget-minded solutions to architectural challenges.

Artefact’s versatile skill set is just one reason the firm has earned repeat jobs from so many clients. Helmed by Ussler and Swiss-Italian architect Lucienne Di Biase Dooley, who joined as partner in 2008, the firm has an unusually collaborative approach that shows clients their opinions are valued and their concerns heard. The result? Spaces that truly reflect the taste and needs of the people who will be using them.

Artefact marries a vast knowledge of architectural history with a firm grasp of leadingedge technology, including 3D-modeling software, that allows its architects to bring drawings to life. In addition, a trusted network of expert subcontractors and vendors ensures that clients have access to specialty materials and get the most for their money. For sophisticated custom interiors and peerless customer service, contact Artefact today.

ODENHEIMER CO.

Top-Notch Water Well Services and More

Trusted by Lehigh Valley families for four generations, Odenheimer Co. provides water well drilling, well pump and tank repair, water treatment system design and installation, geothermal drilling and more. Their wealth of experience, combined with training on the new and constantly improving products within the groundwater industry, gives them the skills necessary to provide their customers, friends and neighbors with a properly installed, high-quality water system from the ground to the tap. Whether a client is a homeowner, builder, business or municipality in the Lehigh Valley area, Odenheimer Co. is able to meet all of their well drilling and water system needs.

142 IRONWORKS

Design, Creation & Installation

142 Ironworks is a custom metal fabrication company whose specialty is turning clients’ visions of metal projects into reality. Based in Macungie, the family-owned business designs, creates and fabricates custom metal products in tandem with an excellent customer experience and signature process.

Projects include railings, stairs, gates and architectural metal work. The company implements its proprietary process for design, creation and implementation/installation for residential, commercial and architectural clients in the Lehigh Valley and beyond.

President Justin “JP” Huddleston says 142 Ironworks’ goal is to use their high-quality creative development process and personalized consultations to shift the current paradigm of custom metal fabrication, and to disrupt the current market and create a new path forward for the industry.

Huddleston, a Macungie native, began welding and fabricating as a kid in his family’s business and has been at it ever since. “It feels like I’ve been doing it forever,” he says. “But there’s more to the business than just me. I have a great team to keep the projects moving from start to finish.”

142 Ironworks uses their high-quality creative development process and personalized consultations to shift the current paradigm of custom metal fabrication and disrupt the current market and create a new path forward for the industry.

D&D HEATING & COOLING, INC.

For over 50 years, D&D Heating & Cooling has been helping the residents and businesses of the Lehigh Valley stay comfortable all year round. Founded in 1970 by Richard G. Colfer, D&D is a family-owned and -operated company, now led by second-generation owner Richard Colfer, and third-generation owner Chris Colfer.

Since the beginning, D&D has always worked hard to build and maintain long-lasting relationships with each and every one of their customers. Success is truly measured by the number of lasting customer relationships.

Whether it’s a newly constructed home or a system upgrade, their team of technicians helps customers find the HVAC system that best fits their needs and keeps their space comfortable no matter the season.

For contractors looking to elevate their new home construction and exceed expectations, the D&D team works seamlessly with contractors. D&D can assist from planning to installing high-performance, efficient HVAC systems that ensure new home owners will enjoy the comfort of their home regardless of what’s happening outside.

D&D installs all major HVAC brands like American Standard and Mitsubishi, ensuring the perfect fit for any space. With decades of invaluable industry experience and dedication to quality service, the D&D team of HVAC specialists is committed to providing reliable installation, maintenance and repair services that prioritize their customers’ comfort and satisfaction.

For over 50 years, D&D Heating & Cooling, Inc., has been providing quality heating and cooling services in the Lehigh Valley and surrounding areas.

Serving both residential and commercial customers, D&D specializes in heating and air conditioning installation, replacement, repair and preventative maintenance.

“YOUR COMFORT IS OUR CONCERN!”

Request an estimate: 610.865.3988 billstofanak.com A family-owned business with OVER 40 YEARS of experience, we pride ourselves on using only the best materials to deliver outstanding results without the overhead.

Mission-focused, ArtsQuest has its eye on the future with a brand-new, state-of-the-art Cultural Center slated to be built in 2025 in addition to the renovation of the historic Turn & Grind Shop, located next to the Bethlehem Visitor Center on the SteelStacks campus. The Cultural Center will serve as a visible and creative gateway to Bethlehem’s SouthSide; provide much needed space, new programs and advanced technology that will double the number of students and families ArtsQuest currently serves; implement new partnerships as a Communications Career Pathway Program with the BASD; and further foster economic development and tourism across the Lehigh Valley, which will improve property values and further civic pride. The Turn & Grind Shop will allow ArtsQuest to significantly expand its private event space to further accommodate corporate events, weddings, proms and additional functions. Its beautiful and historical location and structure will significantly further travel and tourism to the Lehigh Valley.

HAVEN HOUSE: RESTORING HOPE, RENEWING LIVES

community-based mental health services from organizations like Haven House has grown post-pandemic. Looking in from the outside, one wouldn’t know that over 70 staff members are working to keep seven distinct programs and countless partnerships running to support around 3,000 individuals in Lehigh and Northampton counties. Haven House continually searches for new opportunities to expand and improve access to services to fulfill their mission. In addition, Haven House takes every opportunity to further educate the public around mental health to foster a stigmafree environment. This year, Haven House plans to resume poverty simulations, grow group therapy options and host a gala-type event, in order to reach new and different audiences regarding community mental health. Please follow them on Facebook or subscribe to their newsletter to avoid missing any of

ArtsQuest is a nonprofit with a mission of providing access to the arts for all. Its programs reach more than 1.9 million people annually. Fundraising events, sponsors and community partners allow ArtsQuest to provide over half of its programming free to the public with scholarships available for individuals facing financial hardship.

in their

and provide them with support and an opportunity to reach their full potential. To support Haven House, or to learn more about their different programs, visit haven-house.com.

The need for community-based mental health services from organizations like Haven House has grown post-pandemic. Looking in from the outside, one wouldn’t know that over 70 staff members are working to keep seven distinct programs and countless partnerships running to support around 3,000 individuals in Lehigh and Northampton counties. Haven House continually searches for new opportunities to expand and improve access to services to fulfill their mission. In addition, Haven House takes every opportunity to further educate the public around mental health to foster a stigmafree environment. This year, Haven House plans to resume poverty simulations, grow group therapy options and host a gala-type event, in order to reach new and different audiences regarding community mental health. Please follow them on Facebook or subscribe to their newsletter to avoid missing any of their exciting updates.

By Amy Unger

Photography by GRIDLEY AND GRAVES

Lakeside Retreat

INSIDE AN EMMAUS FAMILY’S GETAWAY HOME IN THE POCONO MOUNTAINS

Lakeside Retreat

The possibilities presented by a blank canvas are exciting to most artists. That was certainly true of the multi-level, three-dimensional blank canvas that was entrusted to Donna Wood and the team at Stonewood Interiors in the form of a more than 4,000-square-foot home completely devoid of interior accouterments, just waiting for a master’s touch to add color, character and vibrancy. Wood’s Lehigh Valley design company was brought on board to help a local couple bring their vision for a cozy, inviting, family-friendly lakeside retreat in the Pocono Mountains to life.

The home’s very existence is somewhat of an unexpected twist for that couple,

Terry and Hope Bender of Emmaus. They had no plans to purchase real estate in a different zip code when they booked a vacation rental home near the picturesque Lake Harmony in Kidder Township, Carbon County, in 2020. “It was just kind of a fluke that we ended up buying a home there,” says Hope. At the time, the COVID-19 pandemic was in full bloom, and they were just looking for a temporary escape where the whole family could gather to hunker down for a little while. Emphasis on temporary.

But the area charmed them. Hope notes, although the lake is just a quick car ride up the Pennsylvania Turnpike, “you feel like you’re far away” from the Lehigh Valley.

“We just wanted to have family time, and we thought, ‘wow, this could really be a place where we could bring our kids and their kids,’” she says. The property next door to their rental caught their eye, and Terry became friendly with the woman living there. She told him her son was building another home in the area; they might be moving soon. Before leaving at the end of their getaway, Terry slipped a napkin with his name and number inside the neighbor’s door, just in case. Then he forgot about it.

“Five, six months go by, and a guy calls me and says, ‘Terry, are you still interested?’” he recalls. It took them a minute to connect the dots, but yes, the Benders were still very interested.

Still, they quickly learned that making this particular home their own would be a much bigger undertaking than simply slapping some new paint on the walls and hauling in their furniture and knickknacks. “This was a total teardown,” Hope says. That’s right. The old home had to go. The whole thing. The Benders believe it was one of the original houses on Lake Harmony and may have served as a small hotel at some point; signage they found in the basement supported that theory. But by the time the Benders were signing their name to the deed, the home’s best days were in the rearview mirror. They were seeking a much bigger space with modern flourishes.

Hope & Terry

Photo by Marco Calderon

The construction of the new home took about a year. The finished product was a three-level, five-bedroom, five-bathroom shell, complete with a finished basement and vaulted ceilings accented by wooden beams. “We had the box. We knew what we wanted,” says Terry. “We just needed help to figure out how to fit it in this particular house.” Echoes Hope: “I know what I like, I just don’t know how to make it all come together.” Enter Stonewood Interiors. Wood, who has been a designer for more than four decades, says she was happy to take the baton and run with it. “They are two busy, professional people,” says Wood of the Benders, who own the Buckeye Tavern in Macungie. In addition, Terry owns Bender Property Management and is a partner at Wind Creek Event Center in Bethlehem, and Hope has worked in healthcare staffing for many years and is currently the vice president and co-founder of ARMStaffing.

The Benders put together their wish list. “It needed to be comfortable and durable for their needs and those of their family,” says Wood. Among their must-haves: two laundry areas, a landing area in the entry to store gear, a large table and island to gather around, and a workable kitchen that would be the center of the house. The décor would be clean and classic, nothing too garish or glam.

Wood and her team got to work. “She helped us with pretty much every inch of this house,” Hope says. That included selecting everything from flooring and fixtures to bedding and blinds to the color scheme and accessories. “I think the most important thing is to gain people’s trust, but most importantly, to listen to what they want,” says Wood. “If you really listen to what they want and ask the correct questions, it takes a lot of practice, but you generally get it right.” And there certainly was a lot of trust between the designer and her clients. As the home’s innards took shape over several months, amid countless installations, additions and alterations, there were no sneak peeks for the Benders. While they signed off ahead of time on the swatches and samples that made the final cut, they resisted the urge to see the transformation for themselves until it was no longer a work in progress. They liken the first time they viewed the completed interior to an HGTV reveal. “When we first came back in here, it was like, ‘Oh my God, look at this! Oh my God, look at that!’” Terry says.

The finished product is a modern farmhouse with a lake vibe. “It’s comfortable, it’s functional, which I think go hand in hand. It has to be both,” Wood says. “It’s generational. We designed it so

Fo ur generations of family

the grandkids have a space, the adults have a space.” It’s also a nod to the placid scenery that envelops the home. “We try to bring the outside in as much as we can,” says Wood. The materials, finishes, wood tones and accessories that are prominent inside mimic the natural environment of the nearby lake and mountains. And there are more obvious tributes to the outside world, too, like the “On Lake Time” print that adorns a wall on the upper level, a large acrylic painting of a dock that graces the stairwell wall, and the stone fireplace and stone accents on the bathroom floors.

The home’s floor plan is somewhat unique. The kitchen and living spaces are on the top floor, while the majority of the bedrooms and bathrooms occupy the ground level. The color palette in all of the rooms is dominated by variations of three hues: white, black and brown.

Luxury vinyl flooring mimics the look of European oak. Black window and door frames provide a striking contrast to the white walls throughout the home. In the kitchen, a black-and-white tile backsplash coalesces the white cabinetry and polished black quartz that sits atop the sizeable island. Just a few steps away, a recycled pine farmhouse table with a slatted top resting on carved balusters has room for at least eight.

The emphasis on comfort is on full display, from the brown leather armchairs positioned in front of the fireplace in the great room to the farmhouse canopy bed in the primary bedroom. The grandkids have their own space, too, in the form of six cozy bunk beds tucked into the finished basement.

When asked to name his favorite room in the house, Terry deadpans, “The dock.” There’s certainly a lot to like about the

home’s exterior, too, including a pair of generously sized decks with ample seating for taking in those lakeside sunrises, plus a fire pit and a stone walkway that meanders down to that beloved dock, the launching site for many of Terry’s water toys—boats, kayaks and jet skis—which happen to be a big hit with the grandkids.

Both Benders agree, their goal of creating a second home for their family has been fully realized at their special spot on Lake Harmony, a journey that was set in motion by that eye-opening getaway four years ago. “It was just going to be staying for a weekend and it turned into something special for years,” Hope says. For now, the to-do list at this particular home has been exhausted. The hard part is over, and they’re looking forward to enjoying the space and making new memories with their loved ones. “It very much feels like home,” says Hope “It feels like us.”

Photo by Marco Calderon

ArtsQuest has its eye on the future with a brand-new, state-of-the-art Cultural Center slated to be built in 2025 in addition to the renovation of the historic Turn & Grind Shop, located next to the Bethlehem Visitor Center on the SteelStacks campus. The Cultural Center will serve as a visible and creative gateway to Bethlehem’s SouthSide; provide much needed space, new programs and advanced technology that will double the number of students and families ArtsQuest currently serves; implement new partnerships as a Communications Career Pathway Program with the BASD; and further foster economic development and tourism across the Lehigh Valley, which will improve property values and further civic pride. The Turn & Grind Shop will allow ArtsQuest to significantly expand its private event space to further accommodate corporate events, weddings, proms and additional functions. Its beautiful and historical location and structure will significantly further travel and tourism to the Lehigh Valley.

WHAT BRINGS YOU

By creating a stigma-free community in which those with barriers can thrive towards independence and accomplishment

Just like your favorite pair of pants, your cozy couch or your morning coffee, we ensure that you are always comfortable, no matter the season. For all your HVAC needs, you have friends at Comfort Generation.

the public around mental health to foster a stigma-

resume poverty simulations, grow group therapy options and host a gala-type event, in order to reach new and different audiences regarding community mental health. Please follow them on Facebook or subscribe to their newsletter to avoid missing any of

Photo by Glenn Koehler/NMIH

TO , TO

LEHIGH VALLEY MUSEUMS OPEN WINDOWS TO THE PAST AND PRESENT—AND THE FUTURE TOO

BY SUSAN GOTTSHALL

MUSEUMS ARE A “community treasure.”

That’s how Linda Merkel, executive director of Allentown’s America on Wheels, describes these volunteerdriven cultural nonprofits.

They function like our attics, storing our collective memory and memorabilia of people and events that have come before us. They give us a window into worlds and cultures different from our own; they teach us about art and science; they stimulate our imaginations, inspire our aspirations.

Museums provide “perspective and grounding and help us navigate the future,” says Jill Youngken, assistant director and chief curator of the Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum. “If you don’t know where you were, you don’t know where you’re going.”

The Lehigh Valley’s treasure trove of museums awaits your discovery. Herewith are nine, where your perspectives are sure to be challenged, enlightened and transformed.

Between 1881 and 1989, there were more than 220 silk mills across the Lehigh Valley. In 1928, Allentown’s 85 textile plants employed more than 8,000, and, from 1915 to 1925, more women were making silk than men making steel in the region.

At the National Museum of Industrial History, exhibits feature silk- and steel-making through collections of Bethlehem Steel production artifacts, 19 th and 20 th century textile machinery, worker stories and much more. The story of propane’s development into an energy source is also on exhibit.

“Even if you don’t think machines are your thing,” says Megan Pildis, director of development, “you’ll be surprised that there’s something here you can relate to. This is about people, machines and ideas—the story of American ingenuity.”

A Smithsonian affiliate, the museum finds its home in Bethlehem Steel’s former Electric Repair Shop, in the shadow of 20-story blast furnaces.

This year’s annual Steel Weekend—September 21 and 22—will feature a panel of women who worked in the steel industry: 25,000 women replaced men at Bethlehem Steel who entered military service during World War II.

The weekend will also include live entertainment, youth activities, guided Bethlehem Steel plant tours and an iron pour demonstration: scrap iron will be recycled and melted down at 2,700 degrees Fahrenheit in a fiery process of molten metal forming cast iron sculptures (September 21, 7 p.m.).

602 E. 2 nd St., Bethlehem Open Wednesday–Sunday

For information about admission costs and hours, visit nmih.org

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF INDUSTRIAL HISTORY

TELLING THE TALE OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY’S INDUSTRIAL MUSCLE

Photo by Glenn Koehler/NMIH

HISTORIC BETHLEHEM MUSEUMS & SITES

TELLING THE STORY OF MORAVIAN SETTLERS AND MORE

In the mid-1700s, you could hear 15 different languages spoken in Bethlehem, and Europeans, African Americans and Native Americans lived and worked together—reflecting the philosophy of universality of the Moravian settlers who founded a community here in 1741.

Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites (HBMS) preserves and interprets the history of these settlers and earlier indigenous inhabitants, along with the history and heritage of people and events that have filled the three centuries since then. “We tell a holistic story of what makes Bethlehem special today,” says Lindsey Jancay, vice president and managing director.

HBMS cares for 20 sites across 20 acres in this National Historic Landmark district, including, for example: the Colonial Industrial Quarter, America’s earliest industrial park; the 1741 Gemeinhaus, Bethlehem’s oldest building; and the 1762 Waterworks—a Historic Civic Engineering Landmark and an American Water Landmark—which housed the mechanics that powered the first pumped municipal water system in America.

SIGAL MUSEUM

CONNECTING LOCAL HISTORY TO A BIGGER PICTURE

In the Sigal Museum’s photograph of officers of the 1862 153 rd Pennsylvania Volunteers Infantry, the 10 men in their Union Army uniforms look proud and ready. The regiment of close to 1,000, predominately from Northampton County and known as “Northampton’s Own,” participated in Civil War battles at Chancellorsville, VA, and Gettysburg, leaving close to 300 men killed, missing or captured.

“This is American history made in Northampton County,” says executive director Megan van Ravenswaay. It’s a perspective that helps visitors see their place in events of national scale.

Along with wartime artifacts, the Sigal Museum—Northampton County Historical and Genealogical Society’s flagship institution— features collections of pre-European settlement artifacts, decorative arts, farming implements, colonial furniture, old-time children’s toys and more.

The exhibit “Destination: Northampton County” shows a broader view of history by exploring the community today. Through stories, photographs and family heirlooms from the last 75 years, gathered from residents of different ethnicities and races, the exhibit celebrates inclusivity, diversity and community, and helps visitors realize that personal history is valuable, too.

Opening in September, “Warehouse Valley: A Changing Landscape” will compare historic landscape images of the Lehigh Valley to photographs of the same locations today. The exhibit—to include a series of adult and family programs—explores urban development and the geographic role of our region.

342 Northampton St., Easton | Open Thursday–Sunday For admission costs and hours, visit sigalmuseum.org

Experience Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites, a Smithsonian affiliate, on a walking tour with a certified, costumed guide. Many sites are open only on the tours, which include a blacksmith demonstration, and start at the Goundie House Welcome Center.

Moravian Church Settlements-Bethlehem was inscribed to the prestigious World Heritage List in July, along with Moravian sites in Germany and Northern Ireland/UK, joining a Denmark site inscribed in 2015. These four historic settlements, a single World Heritage Site, bring Moravian town planning and architecture to the world stage. HBMS is a proud caretaker of eight buildings either part of the inscription or serving as supporting properties.

501 Main St., Bethlehem | Goundie House Welcome Center and Schropp Dry Goods Shoppe open daily. For admission costs, hours and tour information, visit historicbethlehem.org

Photo by LBJ Media

Photo courtesy of Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites

NATIONAL CANAL MUSEUM

BOATS AND MULES THAT CHANGED AMERICA

Back in the day, boats carried coal from northeastern Pennsylvania to Philadelphia on canals built along the Lehigh and Delaware rivers. Canal boats were powered by two-mule teams that pulled as much as 120 tons up to 35 miles daily, working 18-hour days, six days a week.

The National Canal Museum tells the story of this eastern Pennsylvania canal transportation system in the 1800s—and how it helped to birth America’s Industrial Revolution. The story, says Gianna Caruso, communications coordinator, “shows the heart of the Lehigh Valley’s industrial heritage. We bring that history to life.”

A signature program of Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, the museum finds its home between the Lehigh Canal and Lehigh River in Hugh Moore Park, a City of Easton 520-acre park with more than two miles of restored canal and three locks. In summer and fall, cruises on the Josiah White II canal boat—one of only a few mule-drawn canal boats operating in America—are led by authentically costumed interpreters and pulled by mules Hank and George.

Exhibits and hands-on activities inside the museum invite visitors to build their own canal system, harness a mule, steer a canal boat, and more. Free guided history walks are offered twice monthly along the D&L Trail. (Check website for details.)

2750 Hugh Moore Park Rd., Easton Open Wednesday–Sunday (days change in October)

For admission costs and hours, visit canals.org

LEHIGH VALLEY HERITAGE MUSEUM

REMEMBERING THE WAY IT WAS

When you think of Lehigh Valley history, it would be hard to overlook the presence that Hess’s used to command at Allentown’s Ninth and Hamilton streets. No wonder seeing one of the department store’s glittering crystal chandeliers displayed in the Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum elicits a wave of nostalgia.

The museum, headquarters of the Lehigh County Historical Society, is filled with Lehigh Valley memorabilia: for example, an 1848 issue of the weekly newspaper The Lehigh Register ; Gen. Harry C. Trexler’s two-sided Victorian “partner desk”; and the original 45 rpm record of Billy Joel’s “Allentown.”

Exhibits tell the Lehigh Valley’s story through the settlement of Pennsylvania Germans, the development of iron, cement and silk industries, the inspiring life stories of philanthropists Donald P. Miller and Gen. Harry C. Trexler and more. A fall special exhibit will focus on the story of Latinos and Hispanics in the county to share “the important and numerous contributions they’ve made and continue to make,” says Jill Youngken, assistant director and chief curator.

During the holiday season, the museum will present Pip the Mouse in “The Mouse Before Christmas,” a puppet show that premiered in Hess’s front window in the 1960s and remained a hallmark of the store’s Christmas celebration for several decades. (Check website for presentation details.)

Photo by Marco Calderon for Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor

Photo courtesy of Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum

AMERICA ON WHEELS

TRANSPORTATION KEEPS THE LEHIGH VALLEY ON THE MOVE

Believe it or not, electric vehicles outsold gas- and steam-powered models in the early years of the 20th century. Electric car makers, in fact, produced thousands of cars annually then.

Spend an afternoon at America on Wheels—a museum focused on U.S. over-the-road transportation—and you’ll learn about turn-of-thelast-century electric cars and much more.

Seventy-five-plus cars, trucks, motorcycles and bikes are on exhibit—from the first horseless carriage built in 1889 in Allentown by Henry Nadig to a futuristic hydrogen fuel cell electric GM concept car.

Take in the race car driven by Mario Andretti when he was U.S.A.C. Indy champion in 1965 and 1966. “The Mustang at 60” exhibit features more than a dozen models of the iconic sports coupe, fathered by Allentown native Lee Iacocca—including a sleek white 1964 ½ model with a white convertible top, like the car first introduced at the 1964 New York World’s Fair.

Children under 12 can “work on” a fabricated seven-foot classic car by changing tires or the oil, or checking air filters. Visit on select Sundays in September and October for rides in a unique classic car. (Check website for weather-dependent details.) And stop in after Thanksgiving to watch model trains (G Scale, O Scale and HO Scale) chugging around the museum’s holiday display that includes a large “LEGO Train City.”

5 N. Front St., Allentown | Open Wednesday–Sunday For admission costs and hours, visit americaonwheels.org.

Take in the mastery of a Rembrandt portrait. Soak up the simplicity of an oak library designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Delight your eyes with the vibrant color in a Keith Haring print.

One of the three percent of museums across the U.S. accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the Allentown Art Museum’s collections include: rare Renaissance and Baroque Italian, Dutch, Flemish and German paintings; American paintings from the mid-1700s; decorative arts from 18th century British silver to 20 th century Tiffany Studios pieces; and textiles spanning 16 centuries and six continents.

The museum, founded in 1934, celebrates its 90 th birthday this year with an eye on the future. Two Tiffany church windows will be added to its Kress Gallery in 2025, after the gallery’s renovation, scheduled to start in October.

Weekend programs for children offer hands-on workshops creating artwork inspired by the museum’s collections; and monthly Art Can gatherings provide accessible art experiences for adults with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Thanks to grants and contributions, the museum stopped charging admission fees in 2022. Since then, says Chris Potash, manager of marketing and public relations, “We have become more of a resource. We’re like a public library, and this is a huge plus for any community. This is a place to see historically significant art… a place that expands the world for anyone who visits.”

ALLENTOWN ART MUSEUM

ART FROM THE AGES, FOR ALL AGES

31 N. 5th St., Allentown Open Thursday–Sunday

Free admission; for information about hours and special exhibits, visit allentownartmuseum.org.

Photos courtesy of Allentown Art Museum

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, SOTA: 60 YEARS AND GOING STRONG!

Since its founding in 1964, the 200-member Society of the Arts (SOTA) has raised more than $1.5 million to support the Allentown Art Museum.

Thanks to this support, the museum expanded its print collection with nearly 400 works dating from the Renaissance to the 21st century— including a rare Rembrandt etching. SOTA’s fundraising also supports educational programs, the museum’s free admission initiative and more.

Members also donate time and talent. Last year, volunteers shared more than 6,000 hours leading docent tours, working with children and families in Art Ways’ creative learning programs and staffing special events. They dust artwork weekly, too.

“SOTA has been instrumental in helping the museum enrich and elevate the cultural landscape of the Lehigh Valley,” says Max Weintraub, museum president and CEO. “It is an extraordinary legacy, and a wonderful testament to the commitment and dedication to service of every SOTA member, past and present.”

DA VINCI SCIENCE CENTER AT PPL PAVILION

INNOVATIVE, INTERACTIVE, IMMERSIVE— DIVE DEEP INTO SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY HERE

If the four-story screen in Curiosity Hall at the Da Vinci Science Center doesn’t captivate you, creating your own flying machine avatar to soar digitally across the Lehigh Valley landscape pictured there surely will.

The cutting-edge technology that powers this immersive experience is just one example of exhibition innovation in the center’s new facility, which opened at PPL Pavilion in May.

A regional hub for STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics) education, the Da Vinci Science Center offers “a great day out with your family that’s fun and very educational,” says Lin Erickson, executive director and CEO. Exhibits focus on health, the environment and how science and engineering factor into Lehigh Valley manufacturing.

Children crawl through a larger-than-life intestine and perform virtual endoscopies. Adults investigate a next-generation, electric, clean-running Mack truck paving the way to a greener future and interact with a solar energy neighborhood that shows how light can power a home. Both generations learn how conservation will help protect our Lehigh River Watershed.

The Da Vinci Science Center encourages exploring the world by observing, questioning and analyzing details to inspire critical thinking and problem-solving. Says Caroline Scutt, director of communications and community relations, “It reframes what it means to be a scientist, and who is a scientist.”

Sharks, a special exhibit, opens October 12—its third stop after debuting at New York City’s American Museum of Natural History.

and

MUSEUM OF INDIAN CULTURE

PENNSYLVANIA’S OLDEST MUSEUM FOCUSED EXCLUSIVELY ON TELLING THE NATIVE AMERICAN STORY

Long before Allentown was founded in 1762 and the Moravians put down roots in 1741, the Lenape (lehn-AH-pay) people inhabited this land we’ve come to call the Lehigh Valley.

The Museum of Indian Culture tells the story of these indigenous peoples—whose ancestral lands, called Lënapehòking, covered Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and parts of New York—and the stories of other Native American peoples throughout the Western Hemisphere.

Collections of stone tools, ceramics, carving, weapons, beadwork and basketry show how Native Americans navigated life before European contact. A current special exhibit shows the influence of European glass beads and how they transformed the ways Native Americans adorned themselves and their ceremonial regalia.

Founded in 1980, the museum’s more than 40 years of educational programming has included August’s annual Roasting Ears of Corn Festival and the upcoming Heritage Day for children, September 28, featuring arts and crafts, and lifeway skills.

The museum plans to break ground in October on a Native American village expected to open by fall 2025 at its location on Little Lehigh Parkway, an old Lenape trail. The current trail will be expanded to start at Bogert’s Bridge and end across Fish Hatchery Road at a spot where a known village existed 14,000 years ago.

“There’s a lot of history here,” says Pat Rivera, executive director; the village “will bring that history to life.”

2825 Fish Hatchery Rd., Allentown | Open Friday–Sunday For admission costs and hours, visit museumofindianculture.org

Photos courtesy of Museum of Indian Culture

Tom & Carla Menhennitt

“We just love each other so much,” gushes Tom Menhennitt as he looks at his wife of eight years, Carla. The pair officially opened The Smokin’ Pasty Co. together in 2021. The idea, however, started in 2020 when Tom received a meat smoker for his birthday. He experimented with smoking meats and fish and began teaching himself through trial and error until, one day, over a plate of his latest meal made in the smoker, he remarked to Carla, “Can you imagine this in a pasty?”

The pasty originated in Cornwall, England, where Tom’s family is from. A pasty

is made of buttery, flakey D-shaped crust traditionally filled with ground meats, boiled potatoes and onions and is easy for grab-and-go enjoyment. The pasty was a go-to food for miners and slate quarry workers, a meal that could be easily consumed while on the clock.

Carla and Tom have created not only an incredible menu with monthly specials but they have cultivated quite the following. “We love to get to know our customers. Talking to them over our Dutch door at pickups and keeping up with their lives is so rewarding. We love feeding bellies and making

people happy,” Tom remarks. Carla says, beaming, “We just love seeing people so happy.”

The recipe the couple is sharing here is part of a pasty special you will usually find on the menu in April called Red’s Smokin’ Meatloaf (a.k.a.

The Birthday Boy). “Tom loves meatloaf and April is his birthday month,” explains Carla. “It is one of our favorites and is always in rotation in our home.” This glazed meatloaf is rich in flavor and is the ultimate comfort food.

You can place an order for Carla and Tom’s pasties through Facebook, Instagram

and on their website. They are also available at The Market at JF & G in Bangor, Klein Farms Dairy & Creamery in Easton, AKFarms in Northampton and More Pickles Please in Palmerton. The couple has plans for expanding over the next year as well. “Sharing foods, creating memories and traditions that will take you back to a time and place spent with family and friends is what it is all about,” says Tom, “and we are so honored to be part of that.”

285 American Bangor Rd., Bangor 610.671.6735 | smokinpasty.com

TEXT & PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON CONKLIN

Tag @lvstylemag when you make it at home!

GLAZED MEATLOAF

Serves 10–12

INGREDIENTS

3 lb. ground beef

1 lb. ground pork

1 cup ketchup

3 large eggs

1 ½ cups breadcrumbs

1 Tbsp. parsley

1 Tbsp. onion powder

1 ½ tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. salt

2 tsp. pepper

1 tsp. oregano

GLAZE

½ cup ketchup

½ cup spicy brown mustard

½ cup brown sugar

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Mix all glaze ingredients together in a small bowl and set aside.

Mix all meatloaf ingredients in a large bowl until well combined.

Form the mixture into a loaf and then place it into a baking dish.

Bake for 50–60 minutes, brushing glaze across the top of the meatloaf when there is 10–15 minutes of bake time left.

Enjoy this recipe as a pasty at The

Smokin’ Pasty Co.’s Bangor shop in April!

La Maya

BY SUSAN GOTTSHALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON CONKLIN

Painter Frida Kahlo holds court at Hellertown’s La Maya, a Mexican restaurant that opened along Main Street in July. Yes, her wall-sized image is a focal point of the décor, but it’s the sense of her that’s the heart of this restaurant.

Passionate, bold and bohemian, that was Kahlo, and that’s La Maya as well. Here, the flavor is bold, there’s passion in every square inch of the décor and the vibe is decidedly bohemian. This is a Mexican restaurant that’s unconventional and proud of it.

Co-owners Charles Moyer and Rogelio Romero dreamed of their own eatery when they worked together at Bethlehem’s Tapas on Main about a decade ago. Moyer, who’s from Bethlehem, has always loved the restaurant industry, he says, and he’s bothered by the amount of time so many of us spend staring at screens today. He wanted to give people a good reason to disconnect from their devices—and connect with each other instead.

The restaurant’s name hails from the Riviera Maya, a stretch of Caribbean coast on Mexico’s northeastern Yucatán Peninsula that’s home to Tulum and Cancun. The tropical laid-back sensibility found there is the inspiration for Moyer’s and Romero’s restaurant venture together— “a modern, familiar take on traditional Mexican,” as Moyer puts it.

That laid-back sense fuels the ambiance, rich in color and layered details, making La Maya a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Mother/daughter designers April Wilson and Gabrielle DiFrancesco, respectively, set out to transform “the square white box”—the décor of the juice bar that previously occupied the space—into a

warm and comfortable, yet vibrant, restaurant.

The result throbs with personality. Hues of terracotta, orange, deep raspberry and rosa Mexicano (Mexican pink) call up a tropical sunset. An arch at the back of the restaurant suggests a grand hacienda in Spanish Revival style. Natural elements such as the black walnut bar top, terracotta tile and ceiling beams from a Pennsylvania barn, with a nod to local history, set a rustic, earthy tone.

The requisite sombreros are here, but these are retro specimens hailing from the 1950s. A mix of vintage and modern accoutrements underscore the hip quotient: gorgeous urns, wooden bowls lavishly filled with oranges and limes, potted succulents, flickering gold votives, happy orange-trimmed placemats, gold gingham cloth napkins and soft orange pillows on green alfresco tables and chairs at the entry.

Undoubtedly, however, the showstopper is the 30foot, mid-century-meets-70s banquette, custom-upholstered in 20 yards of orange velvet. Fun and funky, it plays well with the gallery above it, which includes prints and sketches—some cheeky and irreverent—along with photographs of Romero’s family.

The cuisine, as Moyer describes it, is “coastal Mexican with modern flair,” known for raw dishes and lighter, brighter flavors. Romero, from Puebla Cholula, Mexico, emphasizes that it’s not your usual Mexican fare: “No rice and beans!” he says.

The menu bears this out: even the nachos—tortilla chips, mixed cheese, pickled morita chiles, tomatoes, pickled red onions, crema, queso cotija, cilantro

and avocado salsa—are stripped of beans.

Curated culinary selections have been created by coexecutive chefs Freddie Garcia and Andre Meza. Garcia previously cooked at Bethlehem’s Tapas on Main and Easton’s Sette Luna; Meza, from Oaxaca, Mexico, cooks at a Stephen Starr restaurant in Washington, D.C.

Ingredients are sourced locally: fish from Lehigh Valley fresh fish markets, meat from Saylors and produce from regional farms (when available). Sourcing locally is important, says Garcia, because, “We care a lot about our food.” The goal at La Maya is providing an exciting culinary experience; offering the highest-quality food is part of that.

Main plates showcase the lighter, brighter flavors. Butterflied, grilled branzino with verde cruda salsa is topped with red cabbage slaw and Fresno peppers; jumbo white Gulf shrimp

Chef Freddie Garcia, Co-Owner Rogelio Romero, Co-Owner CJ Moyer

Kale & Burrata Salad

Baby kale, green apples, heirloom cherry tomatoes, watermelon radish, queso burrata, toasted cashews, served with macha balsamic vinaigrette

Ostras de Horneadas

Half dozen baked oysters, smoked pork belly, tortilla crumbs, Tsar’s salmon caviar, Fresno pepper jam mignonette

are partnered with toasted noodles, pickled morita chiles and fresh lime. A Mexican take on chicken and waffles is particularly tempting: poblano waffles with crispy boneless chicken thighs, Birchrun Hills habanero ranch sauce, watercress and pico de gallo.

Smaller plates, suitable for sharing, feature the raw dishes indicative of this cuisine. “Aguachile verde” is a study in freshness. Flounder marinated in lime juice and salt ceviche-style swims in a sea of tomatillo broth with slices of cucumber and pieces of avocado. Radish slices accent the picture with hints of red; jicama brings crunch. An onion hash garnish adds another layer of texture and flavor. Made fresh every four hours to ensure its emerald green brilliance, the broth—tomatillo, fennel tops, cucumber, cilantro stems, vinegar and serrano peppers— explodes with flavor.

a classic mignonette sauce for dipping the oysters. What a flavor bomb.

Oh my, the “guac especial” is, indeed, special. La Maya sends traditional guacamole on a taste trip by adding smoked almonds and Birchrun Blue cheese from a Chester County dairy farm. The nuts’ earthy, smoky notes are brightened by green apple and piqued with pickled red onion. Fresh mint lingers, cooling a bit of heat, and small chunks of avocado contribute big bites of velvety lusciousness. House-made chips finish this shareable plate with crisp pleasure.

Milky white burrata against baby kale’s dark, leafy greens is still-life lovely. The salad glistens with macha balsamic vinaigrette—with its garlicky, peanutty, smoky flavor—and cherry tomato and red onion provide color accent. Toasted cashews, watermelon radish and green apples contribute to the complex flavor profile here.

Callos Tostadas

Sea scallops, crispy onions, yuzu jalapeño mayo, salsa macha, avocado, served on a tostada

Also prepared ceviche-style, the silky, subtle sea scallops in “callos tostadas” are perfect foil for its saucy yuzu avocado mayo and spicy salsa macha— made with peanuts, sesame, guajillo peppers and chile de árbol. Creaminess and crunch come from avocado, julienne radish, parsley, microgreens and the house-made tostada. All that and there’s more… a crispy finish from the fried shallot topping. Yum.

Textural contrast shines center stage in La Maya’s inspired Chesapeake oysters. Smoked pork belly balances the briny bivalves’ sea essence, and contributes chewy depth. Tortilla crumbs add crunch, and Tsar’s salmon caviar snaps, crackles and pops in your mouth. Fresno pepper jam—Fresno peppers, cloves, red peppers, sugar and cinnamon—infuses

Just the sight of La Maya’s margarita is refreshing. Served in a short, wide glass with green trim, the lime slice garnish topped by a purple flower is picture-perfect. Rimmed with Tajín, a tangy spicy seasoning powder of chili peppers, salt and dehydrated lime juice, this is a margarita on steroids. Tajín’s flavor and color transform this drink.

Tasting the traditional Mexican drink, cantarito, is like hitting a jackpot. Icy cold, this combination of the restaurant’s brand of tequila blanco, orange juice, lime juice and grapefruit Jarritos creates a perfect day-at-the-beach drink. Who cares if you’re not at the beach? Beautiful garnet chamoy (a condiment of fruit, dried chiles and lime juice) and Mexican sugar trims the rim of the drink’s traditional colorful clay cup, a “jarrito

Guac Especial

Traditional guacamole, green apple, blue cheese, smoked almonds, pickled red onions, mint, served with housemade tostadas

de barro,” which keeps the drink cold. It’s a cultural experience, sipping a cantarito, and it beams you up directly to Cancun.

La Reina Frida (the queen Frida), is a royal refresher, for sure. House-made strawberry puree, agave syrup, salt, fresh cracked pepper and egg white with La Maya’s tequila blanco create a classy cocktail, creamy with the subtle sweetness of summer fruit. The gorgeous floral garnish multiplies the happiness quotient of this drink tenfold.

Named for the restaurant’s guiding spirit, this drink is proof positive that Frida Kahlo-style passion infuses La Maya in every way. Drinks refresh in that bracing, clean tequila way; the food grabs your attention with its full-on freshness and flavor; and the ambiance just makes you smile the minute you walk in the door. That’s intentional. Says DiFrancesco of the design team: “We hope La Maya becomes your new escape, a new place to call home, as it has become ours.”

This restaurant is an intoxicating combination of food, drink and décor. Moyer hopes it’s so intoxicating “[people] don’t want to leave.”

Viva La Maya.

La Maya

650 Main St., Hellertown 610.628.2134 | lamayarestaurant.com

HOURS

Mon.–Thurs.: 4–11 p.m. Fri.: 4 p.m.–midnight Sat.: 11 a.m.–midnight Sun.: 11 a.m.–8 p.m.

Cost: Small plates: $15–$30 Mains: $25–$50

Parking: Free on-street parking Reservations: Highly recommended.

WHAT TO ORDER

Do not miss “guac especial”: smoked almonds and blue cheese elevate this to the penthouse of flavor. A sight for sore eyes, “aguachile verde” wakes up your taste buds. Cool the heat with “cantarito”— oozing with Mexican character, taste and tequila… the cup is so fun! I love this drink.

Cantarito

La Maya Blanco, lime & orange juices, grapefruit Jarritos, pinch of salt

General Manager Lindsey Richards, Designers April Wilson and Gabrielle DiFrancesco, Manager Hannah Chromczak

BLOODY MARY PICKLE SHOT

SUN SPIRITS

Served in a crisp hollowedout dill pickle half that’s rimmed with Old Bay seasoning and garnished with an olive, Triple Sun Spirits’ Bloody Mary Pickle Shot is a must-try for Bloody Mary lovers. “It’s our secret house recipe,” manager Cynthia Kwant says of the concoction. The drink originated from a desire to bring something unique to Triple Sun’s specialty shot menu. “Pickles were becoming hugely popular in so many things from beer to cocktails, and I wanted to incorporate it into our menu in a slightly different way,” Kwant explains.

So, what’s the right way to consume the drink? “Most eat the olive, take the shot and just eat the pickle,” she says, describing the flavor profile as spicy and savory, balanced out by the sourness of the pickle. “A Bloody Mary isn’t for everyone; however, those who love them are always intrigued when they see it, and most end up ordering one and are pleasantly surprised.”

While the shot is a recent offering for the distillery, it’s already been growing in popularity and is likely to be found on the menu permanently.

518A Bank St., Emmaus | 610.904.8082 triplesunspirits.com

KRISTEN WAGNER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW CANNON

Lehigh Valley Health Network is now proudly part of Jefferson Health

We’re coming together! Like-minded health care leaders committed to improving the community’s well-being and combining our strengths, today–and for the future of care. Ours is a future with a nationally ranked network of specialists that complement your already great care. A future where academic medicine informs research and clinical trials that promise you better treatments. And a future where our communities thrive.

We’re coming together. Even stronger, for you.